Every time I look at the news, there is another article on batches of toys being recalled, usually due to excessively high levels of paint in the surface decorative elements. Most are made in China, Taiwan or Vietnam. Most recently, J.C. Penney Co. Inc recalled Chinese-made Winnie the Pooh play sets and ornaments with a horse theme, as well as art kits made in Taiwan and Vietnam.

Some statistics say about 80% of the toys found in US homes are made in China. That is alarming for more than one reason. Even if you overlook the potential safety issues, it also shows me just how much we’ve allowed our own national workforce to be replaced by workers in a country that is not even an American ally.

It stands to reason, then, that as parents we should tap into our creative outlets and make some of our own gifts this Christmas. What do you have to lose? Not only are you creating a safer toy, but also a potential future heirloom.

If you start with your favorite search engine and look around for tutorials on making dolls and doll houses. You can find patterns for teddy bears and trains. Other popular hand made playthings would be edible play dough, face and body paint, or even a classic sock monkey. If you feel like getting out a saw, some sandpaper and some safe paints, you can make some spectacular wooden blocks. I’ve even seen blocks decoupaged instead of painted.

It’s first September, so you have plenty of time to plan a couple of toy making projects. Start now and create something special that your children can hand down to their own kids one day.

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